May kicks off the busiest moving season when home sales rise in summer. That's why it's also National Moving Month! Whether you're staying in Virginia, moving into Virginia, or even moving out of Virginia, we have helpful information to make the process as smooth as possible.
Welcome to the mother of states!
Virginia is a great place to live and has many things to do. You're going to love it here. From registering your car in VA to ensuring your valuables are protected during your move, we want to help. There's a lot you can do to learn about living in Virginia.
And it's nice to be your neighbor! Northern Neck Insurance is a local Virginia-only insurer by choice. As a Virginia-only insurer, we know how to preserve and protect what Virginians value most. We also do things a little differently than the big national insurers. When you call, we answer the phone: 1-800-552-8660. You can also get a home insurance quote and save money on auto and renters insurance.
Moving to Virginia checklist
Moving is a monumental task. Our checklist can help you set up car registration in Virginia, set up utilities, and plan for expenses.
- Consider timing: Be mindful of school enrollment periods if you have children. Also, bear in mind that summer is typically peak moving season. This might mean higher moving costs and less availability, so plan accordingly.
- Change your mailing address with the USPS.
- If you're moving within Virginia, you can avoid paying double property tax by returning your car decal to the DMV and getting a decal in your new location.
- Notify the DMV of your move out of state or a new community in VA.
- Register your car, register to vote, and get a driver's license. You have 60 days after your move to exchange your driver’s license for a VA license using this DMV official form.
- Research how to set up utilities in Virginia. Once you've chosen your providers, schedule your utility setups to coincide with your move-in date. This ensures that you'll have necessary services like water, electricity, and internet from the moment you move in.
- Learn about the general cost of living in Virginia.
- Locate the essential facilities, such as the nearest hospital, police station, and fire department, for your safety and in an emergency.
Research & hire reliable movers
- Ensure your moving company is a legal and bona fide moving company registered with DMV.
- Ensure they have a physical address and phone number on their website.
- Check for a federal motor carrier number.
- They should have good references.
- Make sure they offer valuation and VA DMV cargo insurance.
- They should have reasonable rates, but don't go with the cheapest
Packing tips
- Color-coded tape on boxes
- Clothing to wrap fragile items
- Trash bags for overhanging clothes
- Suitcases as moving boxes
- Socks to cover wine glasses and small breakables
- A box cutter to create handles for your boxes
- A “day of” box with items you’ll need first, like medications and toilet paper
Handy reminders:
- Have cash to tip movers.
- Forward mail and change your address with online accounts.
- Give your neighbors your propane tank.
- Plan to secure pets and have ID tags on for moving day.
- Don’t move hangry - plan simple meals for your moving week.
- Stay aware of the weather.
- Secure important documents with you on moving day.
- Exchange cell numbers with your mover.
- Make one last sweep & secure your home before you leave.
Want to find out more about home insurance in Virginia? We're local and always ready to help!